9/11 Remembered

Friday, September 11, 2009

University of West Georgia alumnus and nurse practitioner Jim Martin will donate a historically significant American flag to UWG in memory of Sept. 11.

The flag flew in an aircraft that transported wounded soldiers from Afghanistan to Germany. Martin, who was the flight nurse in charge of the crew on the aircraft, said that the flag was flown for several reasons.

“The primary reason was to allow the wounded soldiers that were coherent to realize that they were heading home, they were safe and that they are American heroes,” said Martin. “The flag now symbolizes the sacrifices made by many over the years to provide us the freedoms that do not come without cost.”

Martin said the flag was also personally flown on the plane to recognize the support he received from the university while he was deployed for four and a half months this past spring and summer.

UWG’s Health Services staff sent Martin supportive e-mails and was able to fill in his shifts during deployment.

“The staff at Health Services are a wonderful team of people that reach out for the common good of the students,” said Martin. “I cannot think of a better place to work – for they are family.”

After the flag’s donation, it will be framed and displayed on campus. The location of the display is to be announced. Martin said the flag will be donated to give honor and appreciation to the university.

“During my deployment, I recognized the many tools that were given to me as an alumnus during my deployment as a Major in the USAF Reserve,” said Martin. “For that I am grateful.”